Recipe: Asian Short Ribs

1/2 cup low sodium soy sauce

1/3 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup rice vinegar

2 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed

1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper

8 beef short ribs boneless, skinless (about 4 pounds)

4 medium carrots, peeled and halved crosswise

1 small green cabbage (about 1 pound), quartered

2 tablespoons cornstarch

1 tablespoon sesame oil

4 scallions, thinly sliced (optional)

In a 4 to 6 quart slow cooker, combine the soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and red pepper.

Add the short ribs and carrots and arrange in a single layer.

Lay the cabbage on top.

Cook, covered, on high for 5 to 6 hours (or on low for 7 to 8 hours), until the meat is tender.

Transfer the cabbage, short ribs, and carrots to plates.

With a large spoon or ladle, skim the fat from the cooking liquid and discard.

If the slow cooker is on the low setting, turn it to high.

In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water until smooth.

Whisk into the cooking liquid and cook until thickened, 2 to 3 minutes.

Stir in the sesame oil.

Spoon the sauce over the short ribs and vegetables and sprinkle with the scallions (if using).

Serves 4

Real Simple Magazine October 2008